A black cat is the costume almost everyone has worn once, which is exactly why it's worth doing well. The ears, tail and whiskers stay the same; what changes is the clothing underneath, the fabric and the mood you choose. Below are 45 versions, from a five-minute leggings look to velvet, sequins and a masquerade gown, plus ideas for men, teens, babies, couples, families and groups. Throughout, I've added what I'd tell anyone getting dressed: how to keep a tail from drooping, which shoes last a whole night, and how to stay visible in the dark when you're dressed head to toe in black.
Why Texture Carries an All-Black Costume
All black is harder to style than it looks. In dim party light and in phone photos, black pieces merge into one dark shape, and the ears and tail can vanish against your hair and clothes. The fix isn't more accessories; it's contrast in texture.
- Mix a matte base with one shiny piece: a velvet tail on cotton leggings, satin ears over matte hair, a patent collar on a knit top.
- Put a lighter edge where it counts. A thin silver or pink lining inside the ears lets them show up against dark hair.
- Check the outline in a dark room. If the tail disappears against your leggings, give it a different fabric or a little sheen.
- Add reflective trim for any walk after dark. Black is very hard for drivers to see, and a strip on the tail and sleeves fixes that.
When I put a black cat together, I take a quick flash photo in a dim hallway before deciding anything is finished. Whatever disappears in that photo is what needs more contrast.
1. Classic Black Cat Costume With Bodysuit
This is the version I'd teach first, because everything else builds on it. A long-sleeve black bodysuit or fitted top with opaque leggings, a tail fixed firmly at the waistband, and a headband with felt or velvet ears. Hair can be loose, in a high ponytail or under a smooth black wig. Draw a small triangle nose, whiskers and a lifted cat-eye with face-safe products. A rhinestone collar or a black ribbon with a small bell finishes the neck. I'd pick flat ankle boots or black sneakers, and add fingerless gloves with soft fabric claws if you want detail without losing the use of your fingers.
2. Glam Black Cat Costume With Sequin Dress
Sequins turn the basic cat into a party look. Choose a black sequin mini or midi dress with some stretch, sheer tights, a slim faux-fur tail and rhinestone ears. Sequins scratch the inside of your arms and catch on a tail, so I fix the tail slightly lower than usual, below the hem of the sequined section. Soft waves or a glossy black bob wig, a long liner wing, silver lids and fine whiskers. A jeweled choker is your collar, a small metallic clutch carries the essentials, and block-heel boots or pointed flats beat stilettos for a long night. Keep the rest quiet and let the dress do the talking.
3. Easy Black Cat Costume With Leggings
Got an hour? This one comes straight from the closet. Black leggings with a fitted black tee, turtleneck or athletic top, ears made from felt triangles glued to a plain headband, and a fabric tail pinned or clipped to the back of your waistband. Hair stays however it already is. Eyeliner gives you a tiny nose, three whiskers each side and a small flick at the eyes. I glue felt ears with a strip of felt folded around the headband first, because felt glued straight onto smooth plastic pops off by the end of the evening. A ribbon choker, fingerless gloves if you own them, and sneakers for school, parties or trick-or-treating.
4. Velvet Black Cat Costume With Cape
Velvet makes a black cat feel rich and a little mysterious, never scary. Start with a velvet dress, jumpsuit or long-sleeve top and trousers, and add a short black cape with a satin lining that ends above the tail so both stay visible. Velvet picks up every speck of lint and pet hair, so I keep a lint roller by the door and roll it down once more before leaving. Plush velvet ears, a smooth low ponytail or loose curls, smoky grey eyes and a softly shaded nose. A wide collar with a moon charm, a small velvet pouch, black tights and lace-up boots finish a cat for indoor parties and costume dinners.
5. Black Cat Tutu Costume With Striped Tights
A tutu brings bounce to a cute black cat. Pair a long-sleeve black leotard or fitted shirt with a layered black tulle skirt and shorts underneath for coverage, then add black-and-grey striped tights for contrast. Fuzzy ears, a bendy tail and soft paw gloves finish the cat parts. Two high buns set just behind the headband turn into a second pair of ears, or keep it simple with pigtails. Rosy cheeks, a little heart-shaped nose, a winged liner and neat whiskers. One warning from experience with tulle: it shoves the tail sideways, so I attach the tail to the shorts, not the skirt. Sneakers, Mary Janes or low boots carry it through school parties and dancing.
6. Sleek Black Cat Costume With Jumpsuit
One fitted jumpsuit does the work of several pieces. Choose a stretchy one with sleeves, a sturdy zip and enough room to sit; before buying, I squat in the fitting room, because a jumpsuit that's tight through the seat splits there first. Attach a long curved tail at the waist and add pointed satin ears on a slim headband. A high ponytail or straight black wig keeps the line clean, with matte liner for lifted eyes, a small nose and short whiskers. A silver collar, wrist cuffs and subtle claw nail covers add shine. Flat knee-high or ankle boots and a small black belt bag that disappears into the outfit finish it.
7. Retro Black Cat Costume With Swing Dress
A black swing dress with a fitted waist and full skirt gives the cat a vintage mood. A white collar or narrow satin belt adds crisp contrast, small rounded ears suit the retro shape better than tall pointed ones, and the tail hangs from under the waistband. Rolled bangs, a curled ponytail or polished waves, with a classic wing, a petite nose, curved whiskers and red lipstick. Red lipstick and black whiskers both transfer onto a white collar, so I set the face with powder and blot the lips before putting the dress on. Short lace gloves, a structured handbag, sheer tights and low Mary Janes or ballet flats complete it, with black tulle underneath if you want extra swing.
8. Mod Black Cat Costume With White Boots
Graphic black and white make this mod cat easy to spot. A simple black A-line mini over opaque tights or leggings, with oversized white buttons, a white collar and a narrow white belt. Pointed black ears and a short curved tail suit the clean shape, and a blunt black bob with bangs helps the 1960s look, though sleek natural hair works too. Sharp liner, pale shadow, a tiny nose and symmetrical whiskers. Symmetry is where I'd slow down: draw the whiskers on one side, then copy them looking in a mirror, not from memory. A round white handbag and white knee-high or flat ankle boots finish it, with jewellery kept minimal.
9. Disco Black Cat Costume With Flared Pants
Disco cat is built for the dance floor. High-waisted black flares with a shimmering fitted top or sequined bodysuit, a glittering belt that holds a slim tail, and metallic ears on a padded headband. Big curls or a voluminous black wig, silver shadow blended into a dramatic cat-eye, a black nose and fine whiskers. Flared hems drag on the floor in flat shoes, so try the trousers on with the platforms you'll wear before hemming. I'd choose a low, stable platform rather than a tall one for walking. A reflective collar, stacked bangles and a mirrored clutch catch the party lights.
10. Eighties Black Cat Costume With Leg Warmers
Neon turns the black cat into an eighties workout. Layer a black leotard over shiny black leggings, add a cropped sweatshirt or off-the-shoulder top in electric pink or purple, matching leg warmers, a bright belt, and ears with small neon accents. A high side ponytail with a scrunchie, bold blue or purple shadow, winged liner, whiskers and a small nose. The tail should sit above the belt so it stays visible against the leggings. Shiny leggings show any sag in a tail, so I give this one a wire core. High-tops and stacked plastic bracelets finish a costume that's easy to dance in.
11. Y2K Black Cat Costume With Cargo Pants
For an early-2000s cat, combine black cargo trousers with a cropped tee over a full-coverage camisole, a studded belt, a detachable tail, narrow sunglasses and fuzzy ears. Two mini buns, crimped waves or a high ponytail with face-framing pieces. Glossy lips and silver shimmer update the usual nose, whiskers and liner. Cargo pockets bulge and pull the tail off-centre, so I empty them and use the small shoulder bag instead. Chunky sneakers or platform boots balance the wide legs, and silver clips with mesh fingerless gloves add texture. Keep the outfit mostly black so the cat still reads through the accessories.
12. Gothic Black Cat Costume With Lace Dress
Black lace makes a dramatic cat that still feels approachable. A lined long-sleeve lace midi, or a lace blouse over a solid black skirt, with opaque tights, a velvet tail and pointed ears trimmed in lace. Unlined lace can look see-through in camera flash, so I always check a lace dress under a phone light first. Soft waves, a braided crown or a low bun under the headband, smoky charcoal eyes, a defined cat-eye, a nose and fine whiskers. A cameo collar, lace gloves and a small black rose or hand fan add a vintage feel, with lace-up ankle boots or low heels for an indoor party.
13. Punk Black Cat Costume With Plaid Skirt
Punk suits a thrifted cat. Pair a plain black tee or fitted sweater with a black-and-grey plaid skirt, ripped-look leggings or distressed black jeans, then add a faux-leather jacket, a studded collar, a fabric tail and pointed ears with safety-pin charms. A textured ponytail, temporary coloured streaks or a short spiky wig, heavy liner, dark lipstick, a small nose and bold whiskers. Fingerless gloves and layered chains build the theme without props. I run my fingers over every stud and pin before anyone wears this near children, because cheap hardware can have sharp edges. Combat-style boots or high-tops finish it.
14. Rock Star Black Cat Costume With Metallic Jacket
This cat borrows from stagewear. Coated black jeans or leggings, a fitted black top and a silver or metallic black jacket, with sparkling ears, a long tail and a wide choker that doubles as a collar. Big curls, teased hair or a shaggy black wig give the silhouette some height. Silver shadow, an extended cat-eye, a nose, whiskers and a little face-safe glitter on the cheekbones. Glitter migrates everywhere, so I press it into a balm base rather than dusting it loose. Carry a glittery clutch or a microphone-shaped accessory, wear sturdy heeled or flat moto boots, and add metallic nails and wrist cuffs so your hands stay free for dancing.
15. Preppy Black Cat Costume With Pleated Skirt
A pleated skirt makes a neat, wearable cat for anyone who'd rather look put-together than theatrical. Pair it with a fitted turtleneck, opaque tights and a cropped cardigan, a thin tail at the waistband and small velvet ears. A high ponytail, smooth bob or neat curls, precise liner, a petite nose, whiskers and soft pink cheeks. A narrow ribbon collar with a tiny bell, a structured mini backpack, and loafers, Mary Janes or lace-up flats. A cardigan hem covers the tail's attachment point, which is exactly where I want it hidden. Pearl-style earrings soften the black, while silver details keep it coordinated.
16. Cozy Black Cat Costume With Oversized Sweater
On a cold evening, this is the cat I'd actually want to be. An oversized black sweater with fleece-lined leggings or slim joggers, a plush tail on a belt worn under the sweater with the curved end showing, fuzzy ears and fingerless mittens with small paw pads sewn on the palms. A loose braid, bun or natural waves, simple liner, a rounded nose, whiskers and rosy cheeks. A soft collar with a light name tag gives a pet-cat feel. Lined ankle boots and thick socks keep your feet warm while handing out treats or walking kids around the block.
17. Black Cat Pajama Costume With Slippers
Pajamas make the lowest-effort cat on the list, good for classroom parties or a night in. A black pajama set, a one-piece sleeper or a long-sleeve top with joggers, plus a detachable tail, plush ears and soft paw mittens. Natural hair, or two small buns that echo the ears. Washable face makeup for a small nose, curved whiskers and a gentle cat-eye. A collar with a fabric moon or star charm adds a Halloween touch. Cat slippers are fine indoors, but slippers have almost no grip on wet steps, so I'd switch to slip-on sneakers outside. A small pillow-shaped treat bag fits the sleepwear joke.
18. Rainy Weather Black Cat Costume With Raincoat
Rain doesn't have to cancel the cat. Start with waterproof black trousers, a fitted thermal top and a black raincoat with room for a tail underneath or attached at the back, and clip weather-resistant felt ears to the hood so they show when it's up. Felt soaks up water and droops, so I spray the ears with a fabric water repellent the day before, or cut them from craft foam instead. A braid or low ponytail, water-resistant liner for the eyes, nose and whiskers, and no loose glitter, which runs in the rain. Reflective piping on the coat and tail, a crossbody treat bag, black rain boots and warm socks keep you seen and dry.
19. Winter Black Cat Costume With Faux Fur Coat
For a chilly night, build the warmth into every piece. A fitted black sweater with thermal leggings, a short faux-fur coat or vest that stands in for cat fur, insulated gloves with fabric paw pads, a thick tail and plush ears on a knit headband. A knit headband grips the hair much better than a smooth plastic one under a coat collar, which is why I use it here. Braid long hair to stop it tangling in the fur, or wear a short black wig. Long-wear liner, a nose and whiskers survive cold wind, and a reflective collar or glowing charm helps you get seen. Warm socks and flat winter boots finish it.
20. Plus Size Glam Black Cat Costume With Wrap Dress
A black wrap dress is my go-to base for a glamorous plus-size cat, because you can adjust the fit at the tie. Choose a midi with some stretch, coverage you're happy with and sleeves for the weather. Wrap dresses can gape at the chest when you move, so I add a small snap or a discreet safety pin inside the crossover. A rhinestone belt carries the tail at the back, with jeweled ears and a velvet collar. Polished curls, a high bun or a sleek ponytail, shimmering lids, lifted liner, a small nose and curved whiskers. A black or silver clutch and wide-fit ankle boots, block heels or embellished flats will last several hours.
21. Maternity Black Cat Costume With Maxi Dress
In pregnancy, comfort leads. A stretchy black empire-waist maxi or soft maternity jumpsuit that never squeezes the waist is the base. Fix the tail higher on the back or to a loose sash, not around the bump. Soft felt ears, a ribbon collar and optional paw prints on the sleeves. Natural hair or a comfortable low ponytail, a gentle cat-eye, a small nose and whiskers. Skin can get more sensitive in pregnancy, so I'd patch-test any face product on the inner wrist a day ahead. Supportive black flats or cushioned sneakers, plus a light yarn-ball crossbody, round it off.
22. Men’s Black Cat Costume With Black Jeans
A men's black cat doesn't need a tight one-piece to work. Straight black jeans with a fitted black crewneck or button-down, a black belt holding a flexible tail, and a headband with matte pointed ears. Short hair styled neatly, longer hair swept back, or a textured black wig. Subtle whiskers, a darkened nose and eyeliner extended at the outer corners. Men who've never worn liner often find a soft pencil easier to control than a liquid pen, so that's what I hand them. A collar-style choker, fingerless gloves and a small yarn ball add detail, with black sneakers, Chelsea or lace-up boots.
23. Boys Black Cat Costume With Hoodie
A plain black hoodie is the easiest base for a boy's cat. Sew soft felt ears onto the hood; pins work loose when a kid pulls the hood up and down fifty times a night. Pair it with black joggers and attach a stuffed fabric tail at the waistband. Washable face paint gives a rounded nose, whiskers and gentle cat-eye shapes. Fabric paw pads on black gloves and reflective tape down the sleeves and tail help on dark streets. A fish-shaped treat bag is easy to carry. Black athletic shoes and warm socks finish it, and nothing should dangle loose enough to snag while he runs or climbs steps.
24. Girls Black Cat Costume With Tulle Dress
Soft tulle makes a girl's cat look festive without slowing her down. Choose a black dress with a knit bodice and a knee-length tulle skirt, with fitted shorts or leggings underneath. Kids complain fast about scratchy tulle against bare legs, so I check that the skirt has a soft lining at the waist. A soft tail at the waist, glitter-trimmed felt ears on a bendy headband, and braids, curls or two high buns. Washable makeup for a tiny nose, short whiskers and rosy cheeks. A satin collar with a fabric bell gives the classic detail without jingling all evening. Ballet flats, Mary Janes or sneakers, plus a small paw-shaped treat bag.
25. Toddler Black Cat Costume With Footed Jumpsuit
Toddlers need soft, warm and easy, and nothing they'll fight to remove. A loose black footed jumpsuit or long-sleeve romper with snaps for nappy changes is ideal. Stitch rounded fabric ears onto the hood and a short stuffed tail onto the back; anything glued or pinned will end up in a mouth. Leave the hood down if they hate it. Skip detailed face paint and use one washable nose dot and two short whisker lines per cheek. Fabric paws on the sleeves and knees add character. For outdoors, add flexible shoes with non-slip soles over the feet, and let a parent carry the cat treat bucket.
26. Baby Black Cat Costume With Soft Romper
For a baby, the costume is really just a soft romper with a few cat details. Choose a breathable black romper or footed sleeper suited to the temperature, and a soft cap with rounded ears instead of a headband. A very short padded tail, stitched on so it doesn't press against the baby when sitting or being held. Skip face makeup entirely and put whiskers, a nose or paw prints on the clothing with fabric paint or embroidery. A collar printed on the romper is safer than anything around the neck. Black socks or soft crib shoes, and a plush yarn ball nearby for supervised photos.
27. Teen Black Cat Costume With Denim Jacket
A black denim jacket makes a teen cat feel current, and it's mostly everyday clothes. Black straight-leg jeans or a skater skirt with leggings, a fitted black top and an oversized black denim jacket, plus a clip-on tail and a padded ear headband with small silver stars. A high ponytail, textured waves or two mini buns. A defined cat-eye, a tiny nose, neat whiskers and optional face-safe silver freckles. A denim jacket hides where the tail clips on, so I clip it to a belt loop rather than the waistband. A ribbon collar, a compact crossbody and chunky sneakers or low combat boots suit school parties and nights with friends.
28. Black Cat And Witch Couple Costume
A witch and her black cat is the original Halloween pair. The cat wears a black jumpsuit, a bendy tail, pointed ears, cat-eye makeup, a collar and ankle boots. The witch chooses a purple-and-black dress or blouse and skirt, a wide-brim pointed hat and a light cape, with soft curls or a long dark wig and purple shadow. Witch hat brims and cat ears both want the same space on a crowded dance floor, so I'd keep the hat brim moderate. A small decorative broom and a shared moon charm link the two. Comfortable black shoes for both, and repeating velvet, silver or purple across the outfits pulls them together.
29. Black Cat And Mouse Couple Costume
Cat and mouse is a pair that explains itself. The cat wears a fitted black top and trousers, pointed ears, a long tail, whisker makeup, a ribbon collar and black boots. The mouse takes a grey sweatshirt or dress with leggings, round ears, a thin grey tail, a pink nose and flat grey sneakers. Mouse ears need to be big and round to read, so I cut them larger than seems right and line the inside with pink felt. Natural hair works for both, though a short grey wig makes the mouse more theatrical. A painted cardboard or foam cheese wedge, matching gloves, and a cute rather than menacing cat keep it family-friendly.
30. Matching Black Cat Couple Costume
Two cats make an easy couple look where each person picks their own shape. One wears a black dress or jumpsuit, the other black jeans with a sweater or fitted shirt. Matching velvet ears, bendy tails, silver collars and similar whisker makeup do the coordinating. Different collar charms, a moon and a star, let each look feel personal. Shoes at a similar height matter more than you'd think in photos. I'd have one person draw both sets of whiskers so the style matches. Carry two light yarn balls in complementary colours, and add matching reflective trim if you'll be walking after dark.
31. Black Cat Family Halloween Costume
A cat family is easy to coordinate across every age, since the base is just black clothing in whatever form each person likes: a dress, a jumpsuit, jeans, leggings, pajamas or a toddler romper. Matching felt ears and fabric tails, scaled to each wearer. Adults can do liner, noses and whiskers, while little ones get a dot of washable paint or printed cat details. Give everyone a different collar colour so each cat has some personality. I make all the ears in one sitting from the same felt, which is what makes a family look like a set. Practical black shoes and matching paw-shaped treat bags finish the group.
32. Black Cat Group Costume With Colored Collars
A group of cats looks coordinated without anyone wearing the same clothes. Everyone starts with an all-black outfit they're comfortable in, then adds matching ears, tails, whisker makeup and black shoes. Give each person a bright collar colour and repeat that shade in their eye makeup or one hair accessory. Natural hair, ponytails, buns or wigs all work. The one thing I'd make everyone agree on is the ear shape and tail length; when those match, mixed outfits look planned rather than random. Colourful yarn balls or paw-print bags give you something to hold in group photos.
33. Black Cat Trio Costume With Gold Silver And Purple
Three cats, three metals. Everyone wears a black bodysuit, dress or top and trousers with ears, a tail, whiskers and comfortable black shoes, then each takes a colour: gold ears, collar, shadow and gloves for the first, silver for the second, deep purple for the third. Vary the hair, with a high ponytail, soft curls and two buns. Gold, silver and purple are easy to buy in craft foam and ribbon, but sheen varies a lot, so I buy all three in the same finish, all satin or all metallic. Matching liner and nose makeup unite the trio, and a small yarn ball in each person's colour gives you something for the photos.
34. Black Cat And Pumpkin Duo Costume
Black and orange make a cheerful duo. The cat wears a black top with leggings or a jumpsuit, pointed ears, a tail, whisker makeup, a silver collar and black boots. The pumpkin takes an orange sweatshirt or round tunic over black trousers, a green leaf collar and a stem headband, with orange clips or a short copper wig. A round pumpkin tunic flattens when you sit unless it's stuffed with loose fibrefill rather than packed tight, so I keep the stuffing light. Simple orange and green eye makeup, a leaf-shaped bag for the pumpkin, a yarn ball for the cat, sneakers for both, and matching striped socks to connect them.
35. Black Cat And Dog Duo Costume
A cat and a dog is a funny pair for siblings, friends or a couple. The cat wears black leggings or jeans, a fitted top, pointed ears, a curved tail, whisker makeup, a collar and black sneakers. The dog wears a brown or tan sweatsuit, floppy fabric ears, a tail, a painted nose and brown shoes, with tousled curls or a shaggy wig if you like. Floppy ears only flop if the fabric is soft, so I use fleece or felt without any stiffener for the dog and keep the stiffener for the cat. Oversized name-tag collars in complementary colours, a yarn ball and a bone-shaped bag finish the pair.
36. Black Cat Masquerade Costume With Gown
A masquerade cat is the formal option. A black floor-length gown or flowing midi with room to walk, a fitted velvet tail, jeweled ears, elbow-length gloves and a delicate cat-shaped eye mask. An elegant updo or long polished waves, with ears and mask both secured. Smoky silver eyes under the mask, a subtle nose and short whiskers. Masks and ear headbands compete for the same spot behind the ears, so I try both on together with the hair done before the night. A crystal collar, a small satin clutch and low block heels or embellished flats under the skirt. Keep the hem off the floor and the mask clear of your side vision.
37. Circus Black Cat Costume With Ringmaster Jacket
Tailoring turns the cat into a circus performer with very little construction. Black leggings or fitted trousers and a simple black top, under a cropped red ringmaster jacket with gold trim, plus a black tail at the waistband. Add miniature top-hat ears, or set pointed ears behind a small decorative hat. Defined curls, a high ponytail or a sleek wig, with gold shadow, a cat-eye, a nose and whiskers. A thrifted red blazer with gold ribbon stitched along the lapels and cuffs gets you most of the way, and that's where I'd start. A light striped hoop or craft cane, flat black boots, and a gold collar and cuffs tie the cat to the jacket.
38. Black Cat Ballerina Costume With Tutu
Ballet pieces give the cat a soft, graceful shape. A black leotard, opaque tights and a knee-length tulle tutu, with a slim tail under the skirt, small satin ears and ribbon wristbands. A secure ballet bun, set low enough for the ear headband to sit in front. Delicate liner, a tiny nose, curved whiskers and soft pink blush, with a narrow velvet collar and a small rhinestone. Real ballet slippers have almost no sole, so outdoors I'd wear black ballet flats with a proper grip instead. A light black ribbon wand is the only prop needed.
39. Black Cat Cheerleader Costume With Pom-Poms
A cheerleader cat is sporty and easy to coordinate. A black pleated skirt with shorts underneath, a black athletic top with simple silver paw prints, a short tail, pointed ears and a metallic collar. A high ponytail with a silver bow or two neat braids. If there'll be dancing or running around, I use waterproof liner for the eyes, whiskers and nose, because sweat moves regular liner fast. Black-and-silver pom-poms are the main prop, with supportive sneakers and ankle socks. Keep accessories short so nothing tangles, and add a light zip-up jacket when it turns cold.
40. Celestial Black Cat Costume With Stars
Stars and moons give an all-black cat a night-sky feel. A black maxi, jumpsuit or fitted top with wide trousers, scattered with removable silver star appliqués, plus ears with tiny moons and a long tail dotted with reflective stars. Flowing waves, braids or a dark wig with silver strands, navy and silver shadow, lifted liner, a nose and whiskers with face-safe shimmer. I scatter the stars from shoulder to hem rather than clustering them at the chest, so the theme reads in a full-length picture. A moon collar and starry clutch, with silver ankle boots or black flats, complete the celestial cat.
41. Skeleton Black Cat Costume With Bone Print
A skeleton cat leans spooky while staying graphic-free. A black long-sleeve top and leggings with clean white or silver bones, pointed ears with small bone details, a black tail with white rings and a reflective collar. Hair pulled back or a short black wig so the print shows. A long cat-eye, a black nose, white whiskers and simple skeletal lines on the cheeks, with no wounds. White face paint creases and cracks on a warm night, so I use a thin layer and set it with translucent powder. Black gloves printed with paw bones, boots or sneakers with removable white accents, and a fish-bone treat bag.
42. Office Friendly Black Cat Costume With Blazer
An office cat has to look professional and come apart quickly. Tailored black trousers with a black blouse or fitted turtleneck and a structured blazer, a subtle clip-on tail and small velvet ears on a narrow headband. Your usual work hair, whatever that is, with precise liner, a tiny nose and light whiskers. Draw the whiskers with an eyeliner pencil rather than paint, so they lift off with a cleansing wipe in seconds. A thin ribbon collar, a paw-print lapel pin and a black tote, with loafers, flats or low boots. Afterwards, the ears, tail and whiskers come off and you're simply dressed in black for the rest of the day.
43. Scarecrow Black Cat Costume With Overalls
Two fall themes, one costume. Layer black denim overalls over a black-and-orange plaid shirt and attach a patchwork tail at the back. Add pointed ears to a soft floppy hat or wear a separate felt headband. Loose braids, tousled waves or a textured black wig, with a cat nose, whiskers and simple stitch lines on the cheeks. Fabric patches on the knees and elbows give the handmade harvest feel; I hand-stitch them with big visible stitches in orange thread, which looks deliberate. Carry a little raffia bundle or a fabric sunflower, wear black lace-up boots and thick socks, and put a bell collar over the shirt to bring back the cat.
44. Black Cat Fairy Costume With Wings
Wings turn the cat into a little fantasy. A fitted black top and layered tulle skirt over leggings or shorts, with a curved tail, pointed ears, sheer black-and-silver wings and a glittering collar. Loose curls, a braided half-up style or a black wig with silver strands. An extended cat-eye, a small nose, whiskers and a little face-safe star shimmer at the temples. Carry a ribbon wand topped with a soft yarn ball. Wings and a tail fight each other at the back, so I mount the wings high on the shoulder blades and keep them narrow enough for doorways. Black lace-up flats or low ankle boots finish it.
45. Royal Black Cat Costume With Crown
End with a regal cat in velvet and gold. A black velvet dress, tailored jumpsuit or long tunic with fitted trousers, a short cape, a curved tail, gold-trimmed ears and a lightweight crown fixed to the headband. A crown on a headband tips backward unless it's very light, so I use a foam or plastic crown and glue it to the headband just in front of the ears. Polished curls, a braided updo or a sleek wig, gold shadow, sharp liner, a black nose and whiskers. A jeweled collar and a soft paw-topped scepter, gold flats, black boots or low block heels, decorative cuffs and a small velvet pouch.
A Tail That Swings Instead of Sagging
Most black cat costumes are let down by a limp tail hanging straight down the back of the legs. A tail needs a little structure and a proper anchor.
- Give it a core. Slide a length of soft craft wire or a few pipe cleaners twisted together inside a fabric tube, and fill around it lightly with fibrefill so it curves but still moves.
- Tape the wire ends. Fold each end back on itself and wrap it, so it can't poke through the fabric or into you.
- Anchor it to a belt, not a waistband. A separate elastic belt under your clothes carries the weight evenly, and the tail comes out through a small gap or a slit in the seam.
- Keep it shorter than your knee. Longer tails get stepped on, shut in car doors and sat on all night.
Ears That Stay Put
Thin plastic headbands slide back on smooth hair. I wrap the band in felt or ribbon before attaching the ears, which gives it grip, and back felt ears with a second layer or thin craft foam so they stand upright instead of folding over by midnight.
Whisker Makeup, Start to Removal
Nearly every cat on this list uses the same face, so it's worth getting it right. I always patch-test any product new to me on the inner wrist the day before. A soft black eyeliner pencil is the easiest tool for whiskers and a nose; liquid liner looks sharper but smudges when you touch your face. Draw three whiskers per side, starting from the outer edge of the nose and flicking outward, and fill the nose tip with the pencil or a little black cream paint.
Press translucent setting powder over everything with a puff. That one step is what stops whiskers ending up on your collar or on the cheek of everyone you hug. At the end of the night, an oil-based cleanser or makeup remover lifts pencil and cream paint far more gently than scrubbing with soap, and it saves the skin under your nose from a red, rubbed patch the next morning.
Same Ears, Forty-Five Different Cats
Every cat here starts from one simple idea: black clothes, secure ears, a tail that holds its shape, feline makeup and shoes you can walk in. From there you can stay classic or go glamorous, retro, sporty, cozy or celestial. Before the night, walk, sit and bend in the whole outfit at home, fix anything that slips, use face-safe makeup, and add reflective trim if you'll be outside in the dark. I'd always rather see a plain black outfit with a tail that swings properly than an expensive dress with one that droops.
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